Quick notes
- Under the hood, the ZenBook 14 packs an Intel Core i7-1260P processor with 16GB of RAM, while the MacBook Pro houses an M2 chip with 8GB of unified memory.
- The choice between the ASUS ZenBook 14 and the MacBook Pro ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
- For those who demand exceptional performance, a premium build, and the macOS ecosystem, the MacBook Pro is the better option.
The ultraportable laptop market is fiercely competitive, with two prominent players standing out: the ASUS ZenBook 14 and the MacBook Pro. Both devices boast impressive specs, sleek designs, and portability. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty details to determine which ultraportable reigns supreme.
Design and Build Quality
The ASUS ZenBook 14 exudes elegance with its sleek metal chassis and exquisite diamond-cut edges. The MacBook Pro, on the other hand, maintains its iconic unibody design with a sturdy aluminum construction. Both laptops are lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for on-the-go professionals.
Display
The ZenBook 14 features a vibrant 14-inch OLED display with a 2.8K resolution and a 16:10 aspect ratio. Its rich colors and deep blacks provide an immersive viewing experience. The MacBook Pro offers a 13.3-inch Retina display with a 2560 x 1600 resolution. While it delivers sharp images, its color accuracy may fall short of the ZenBook 14’s OLED panel.
Performance
Under the hood, the ZenBook 14 packs an Intel Core i7-1260P processor with 16GB of RAM, while the MacBook Pro houses an M2 chip with 8GB of unified memory. Both laptops offer excellent performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications. However, the MacBook Pro has an edge in graphics-intensive tasks due to its dedicated GPU.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for ultraportables. The ZenBook 14 boasts an impressive 10-hour battery life, while the MacBook Pro offers a slightly shorter 9-hour runtime. Both laptops support fast charging, allowing you to quickly replenish power when needed.
Connectivity
The ZenBook 14 and MacBook Pro offer a range of connectivity options. The ZenBook 14 features two Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI port, and a microSD card reader. The MacBook Pro has two Thunderbolt 4 ports, three USB-C ports, and an HDMI port. Both laptops support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.
Operating System
The ZenBook 14 runs on Windows 11 Home, providing a wide range of software compatibility. The MacBook Pro comes with macOS Monterey, known for its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with Apple products.
Price
The ASUS ZenBook 14 is priced competitively, starting at around $1,000. The MacBook Pro, on the other hand, has a higher price point, starting at around $1,299.
Which Ultraportable is Right for You?
The choice between the ASUS ZenBook 14 and the MacBook Pro ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize display quality, battery life, and affordability, the ZenBook 14 is an excellent choice. For those who demand exceptional performance, a premium build, and the macOS ecosystem, the MacBook Pro is the better option.
Final Thoughts
Both the ASUS ZenBook 14 and the MacBook Pro are exceptional ultraportable laptops that excel in different areas. The ZenBook 14 shines with its stunning OLED display, long battery life, and budget-friendly price. The MacBook Pro impresses with its powerful performance, premium design, and seamless Apple integration. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific requirements and preferences.
What You Need to Learn
1. Which laptop has a better keyboard?
Both the ZenBook 14 and MacBook Pro offer comfortable keyboards. The ZenBook 14’s keyboard has a slightly longer key travel, while the MacBook Pro’s keyboard provides excellent tactile feedback.
2. Which laptop is more durable?
The MacBook Pro is generally considered more durable due to its unibody aluminum construction. However, the ZenBook 14 is also well-built and can withstand everyday use.
3. Which laptop is better for video editing?
The MacBook Pro with its dedicated GPU is better suited for video editing. However, the ZenBook 14 can handle basic video editing tasks.